When selecting the perfect engagement ring, there is always confusion as to what is the best between lab diamonds and natural diamonds. With changes being made in technology, lab-created diamonds are becoming popular these days because of their ethical benefits and low cost. However, natural diamonds still stand as the traditional symbol. After becoming aware of the differences between lab vs. natural diamonds you can make a good decision that matches your budget, values preferences, and style.
Diamonds have been the first choice when it comes to Engagement Rings, as they symbolise love, commitment, and eternity.
What Is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
Lab-grown diamonds, also known as lab-created diamonds, are replicas of natural diamonds that are made using highly technological processes in a controlled environment. Lab-grown diamonds are mainly made by these two processes:
High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): In this method the natural diamond formation process is copied by exposing carbon to extreme pressure and heat. This helps in creating a crystal structure which is similar to natural diamonds.
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): This method involves breaking down carbon-rich gases in a controlled chamber, so the carbon atoms can settle and then get crystallized into a diamond.
Lab-grown diamonds have similar properties to natural diamonds. They are also composed of pure carbon and have brilliance and fire equal to them.
What Is a Natural Diamond?
Natural diamonds have formed inside the Earth’s layer under a lot of heat and pressure in billions of years. Then these come to the surface by the process of volcanic eruptions and then at last extracted by mining. They are made up of the purest form of carbon and are one of the hardest substances found on Earth.
Natural diamonds have been used for many years and each natural diamond is unique and has inclusions uniquely too, which is referred to as the fingerprint of natural diamond.There are considerable environmental and ethical impacts of diamond mining, but many companies are now following ethical sourcing and sustainability practices.
Differences Between Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds
To make a smart decision to choose between Lab Diamonds and natural diamonds, it is important to understand their important differences:
Chemical and Physical Properties –
Both lab-grown and natural diamonds have the same hardness, brilliance, and fire.Both have compositions of pure carbon and also show similar optical characteristics.
Origin and Formation –
Lab Diamonds: They are created in labs using advanced technology in a few weeks.
Natural Diamonds: They are formed naturally inside the Earth’s crust over billions of years.
Cost –
Lab Diamonds: 30-40% less in price than natural diamonds of the same size and quality.
Natural Diamonds: The expenses involved in mining and distribution is included and they are rare too so somewhat more pricier.
Ethics and Environmental Point of View –
Lab Diamonds: More environmentally friendly as it doesn’t contain mining or any other natural resources in larger quantities.
Natural Diamonds: Mining has ethical and environmental impacts but now most of the companies are shifting towards sustainable options.
Resale and Investment Value –
Lab Diamonds: They have lower resale value because of easy production and increasing availability.
Natural Diamonds: They have higher resale value because they are rare and have historical importance.
Certification and Grading –
Both lab-created diamonds and natural diamonds are certified by renowned institutions like GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and IGI (International Gemological Institute).
These certifications check for important factors such as cut, clarity, carat weight, and color.
Customisation Options –
Lab Diamonds: They can be customised in various designs as they are available in different cuts, colors, and settings, and this allows for more flexibility.
Natural Diamonds: The uniqueness of natural diamonds and their inclusions make each stone different, so adds a touch of exclusivity to each piece crafted.
Which One Is The Best Choice for an Engagement Ring?
There are a lot of things to be considered when choosing between lab-created diamonds and natural diamonds such as budget, ethical considerations, and personal choices:
Go for lab-grown Diamonds if you want good quality at low cost. Also you can choose them if environmental sustainability is in your mind and you want a modern and innovative approach towards jewelry. This is best if you value size and brilliance over resale value.
Go for natural ones when you want the uniqueness, tradition and rarity to be reflected in your jewelry, and you want your diamond to be a long term investment option. If you consider buying diamonds of historical importance then natural diamonds are best, also get them if you are ready to pay more for the prestige and exclusivity.
Both options have different benefits of their own so the final decision to choose between a lab-grown diamond and natural diamond is a matter of personal choice.
Conclusion:
You should be aware of the above factors when choosing between a lab-created diamond or a natural diamond, as both have their special characteristics. Lab-grown diamonds are an ethical and sustainable option, and natural diamonds have unique design and importance.
Understanding the differences between lab vs. natural diamonds ensures you can make a good decision on which to buy according to your budget and style. With the increase in popularity of lab-created diamonds, couples are embracing them as a responsible and budget-friendly option. On the other hand, natural diamonds are a symbol of love and commitment. Remember, your engagement ring is a symbol of love that lasts forever.
FAQs:
Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Have Resale Value?
Lab-grown diamonds have resale value but are lower than that of natural diamonds because their production is controlled and they are found easily. But they provide an affordable and luxurious option.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Certified?
Yes, lab-created diamonds are certified by GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and IGI (International Gemological Institute), so there is a guarantee of quality and authenticity.
Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Last as Long as Natural Diamonds?
Lab diamonds have the same durability and hardness as natural diamonds, so they will not degrade with time.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds & Natural Diamonds Customisable?
Yes, both lab-created diamonds and natural diamonds can be customised considering different factors such as cut, clarity, and carat weight. So you can get the stone that matches your style and choice.